National Park Week 2025: Latest News, Events, and Updates

National Park Week 2025 is coming soon, from April 19 to April 27. This special week encourages everyone to visit, enjoy, and help take care of America’s beautiful national parks. Whether you love hiking, watching wildlife, or just want a quiet place to relax, this week is a great time to get outside and experience nature.

Free Admission to Kick Off the Celebration of National Park Week 2025

• On April 19, all national parks across the United States will offer free admission to kick off the celebration.
• This annual initiative encourages individuals, families, students, and nature lovers from all walks of life to explore the incredible beauty of national parks without the barrier of entrance fees.
• It presents a perfect opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes, engage in outdoor recreation, and reconnect with the natural world.
• Free admission day often attracts record-breaking attendance, with millions of visitors making plans to explore hiking trails, scenic drives, and historical landmarks.
• April 19 also marks National Junior Ranger Day. Parks will host special activities for kids, including badge-earning programs and family-friendly events

Activities and Events During National Park Week 2025

• This year, the National Park Service (NPS) has announced a comprehensive lineup of activities for National Park Week, offering both in-person and virtual experiences.
• Events include ranger-led tours, specialized workshops on topics like wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism, and interactive educational programs designed for children and families.
• Park visitors can also participate in special photography contests, historical reenactments, and citizen science initiatives aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the delicate ecosystems these parks protect.
• For those unable to attend in person, the NPS will provide digital experiences such as live-streamed Q&A sessions with rangers, 360-degree virtual park tours, and interactive webinars highlighting the history, biodiversity, and cultural significance of America’s most iconic parks.
• Voyageurs National Park is celebrating International Dark Sky Week alongside National Park Week. Events include stargazing sessions and talks on light pollution, led by NASA Solar System Ambassador Jesse Gates.

“For a deeper dive into the history, famous parks, and detailed celebrations of National Park Week, check out our comprehensive guide here.”

Challenges Facing the National Park Service

• Recent reports highlight the significant challenges faced by the National Park Service due to budget cuts, staff shortages, and rising operational costs.
• These issues have impacted various parks nationwide, including renowned sites like Yosemite National Park, where essential conservation programs and visitor services are under strain.
• A growing concern among park officials is the reduced capacity for proper maintenance, resource management, and emergency response, with many park rangers now tasked with overseeing larger territories and managing higher visitor volumes.
• This strain on resources can lead to increased wear and tear on park facilities and natural areas, prompting discussions around the need for increased federal funding and public support.
• In February 2025, the government administration laid off about 1,000 National Park Service employees. This has led to reduced hours at visitor centers and concerns about maintenance and public safety.

How Visitors Can Get Involved?

• Despite above financial and logistical hurdles, National Park Week 2025 remains a powerful opportunity for visitors to actively engage with these treasured natural spaces.
• Visitors are encouraged to join various conservation projects, participate in park cleanups, and attend workshops focused on sustainable travel practices.
• Many parks are introducing new initiatives like wildlife tracking programs and habitat restoration efforts, where volunteers can contribute valuable data to help scientists monitor environmental changes and protect endangered species. These hands-on activities provide a sense of stewardship, allowing participants to take an active role in safeguarding the parks for future generations.
• The National Park Service encourages participation in Earth Day 2025 and Spring Days of Service. Activities include habitat restoration, park maintenance, and community science programs.

Rising Popularity of National Parks

• In 2024, Yellowstone National Park recorded an unprecedented 16% increase in visitor numbers during October, reflecting a broader trend of year-round interest in national parks.
• Similarly, the Grand Canyon National Park reported its highest winter visitation levels in recorded history, drawing in visitors eager to experience the canyon’s snowy vistas and peaceful off-season atmosphere.
• Other parks, such as Glacier National Park and Acadia National Park, also experienced record-breaking attendance, signaling a growing appreciation for nature and outdoor recreation.
• In 2024, U.S. national parks set a new visitation record with 331.9 million recreation visits, surpassing the previous record set in 2016.

Managing Visitor Numbers with Reservation Systems

• To better manage the rising number of visitors while ensuring the preservation of natural resources, several popular national parks have adopted reservation systems.
• Zion National Park has expanded its lottery-based permit system for the Angels Landing trail, one of the park’s most iconic hikes, to prevent overcrowding and reduce environmental damage.
• Yosemite National Park has extended its reservation requirement for peak weekends, holidays, and major events to manage visitor flow and ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience for all guests.
• Other parks, including Rocky Mountain National Park and Arches National Park, have implemented time-slot entry systems during high-demand months to spread out visitor traffic and minimize ecological impact.
• Glacier National Park requires vehicle reservations for the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and the North Fork from June 13 through September 28, 2025. Reservations can be made 120 days in advance or the day before.

Supporting National Parks Beyond Visiting

• Beyond physically visiting parks, there are numerous ways for individuals to support the National Park System.
• Donations to organizations such as the National Park Foundation directly fund conservation efforts, trail restoration projects, educational outreach, and wildlife protection programs.
• Volunteer opportunities abound, ranging from habitat restoration to historical preservation efforts at cultural landmarks.
• Recent initiatives, such as the “Find Your Park” and “Every Kid Outdoors” campaigns, aim to make park experiences more accessible to diverse communities, inspiring a new generation of environmental stewards.
• The National Park Foundation has raised over $930 million toward its $1 billion goal to support conservation, visitor experiences, and education by 2028.

Planning a Visit During National Park Week

• When planning a trip during National Park Week, thorough preparation is essential for a safe and fulfilling experience. Travelers are encouraged to consult official park websites for up-to-date information on park hours, entry requirements, special events, and safety alerts.
• Packing the right gear – such as reusable water bottles, weather-appropriate clothing, navigation tools, and first aid kits – can significantly enhance comfort and safety.
• Mobile applications, like the “NPS App,” provide detailed maps, real-time notifications, and essential safety guidelines to help visitors navigate unfamiliar trails and respond to potential hazards like wildlife encounters or sudden weather changes.
• The NPS App now offers offline access to park maps and information, helping visitors navigate without internet connectivity.

Importance of National Park Week 2025

• National Park Week 2025 is more than just a celebration – it’s a nationwide call to action for the appreciation, preservation, and protection of America’s most treasured natural landscapes.
• By participating in park activities, volunteering, or contributing through donations, individuals can play a vital role in safeguarding these national treasures for generations to come.
• As the global conversation around climate change and environmental responsibility continues to grow, engaging with national parks offers a powerful reminder of nature’s importance in our lives and the collective responsibility we share to protect it for the future.
• Research indicates that national parks are experiencing more extreme heat days due to climate change. The National Park Service is adapting to these changes to ensure public safety and preserve park resources.

National Park Week 2025 is a great time to enjoy the beauty and history of America’s national parks while helping to keep them safe. You can go on fun hikes, join educational events, or support conservation efforts even from home. Every little bit you do helps make a difference. Get ready to plan your trip, tell your friends, and help protect these amazing places so future generations can enjoy them too. The parks are ready for you—this is the perfect chance to explore, learn, and help out.